Notice to Media

Motorists Urged to Use Caution Through Arkansas Work Zones

During the Busy Holiday Travel Season

LITTLE ROCK (11-9) — Motorists were asked today to begin planning now for travel on the Interstate Highway System in Arkansas during the approaching Thanksgiving and Christmas travel seasons.

“The Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) has an aggressive Interstate Rehabilitation Program underway that will eventually affect 380 miles of Arkansas Interstates.” said Dan Flowers, director of the AHTD. “Naturally, a construction project of this magnitude will result in some delays as motorists pass through our work zones. Particularly during this time of increased holiday traffic, we are asking for increased preparation and patience on the part of drivers while we improve our Interstates.”

“We want everyone to arrive safely at their holiday destinations,” Flowers said, “so the Department has begun extensive preparations to help motorists navigate the work zones in a safe and timely fashion. The incorporation of a wide range of safety enhancements, roadway signage, Highway Advisory Radio, “smart” work zones with variable road signs indicating conditions ahead, and a detailed lane closure report on our website will make it as easy for drivers to consider construction issues when making their travel plans.”

“As drivers approach these construction zones they will experience delays and should remain extremely alert to changing road conditions and traffic flow patterns for their own safety and for the safety of our construction crews,” Flowers said. “Special attention should be paid to merging left at the earliest opportunity in these work zones to minimize delays and prevent accidents.” In addition, Flowers urged drivers to observe the following safety guidelines in and around work zones:

· Merge Left. For consistency, motorists should approach all Interstate work zones by merging left as quickly as possible. Once cars are in single file, roadway signs will direct drivers through the construction zones.

· Plan Ahead! Leave yourself plenty of time to take into account any construction projects you may encounter, along with adequate fuel and perhaps a soda or water for the kids.

· Slow down. Follow posted speed limits. When you see a sign that says, “Road Work 1500 Feet,” you will be in the construction zone in 17 seconds. Don’t resume normal speed until you see the signs that say, “End of Road Work!”

· Stay Alert! Watch for warning signs and changing conditions at all times. Avoid cell phone or radio distractions and try not to look at other stopped cars or construction sites.

· Leave Room. Build at least a two-second delay between you and the car ahead while driving, and an adequate safety zone when stopped to allow time for defensive driving. And, keep a safe distance between your vehicle and traffic barriers, trucks, construction equipment and workers.

· Keep your cool. Don’t allow impatient or speeding motorists to cause you to alter your own good driving habits. Remember, the temporary inconvenience of a construction zone will pay off with greatly improved roads soon.

· Always wear your seat belt. Buckle up and keep your children safe in an approved car safety seat installed according to vehicle and car seat manufacturer’s recommendations.

“The Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department has instituted some proactive measures in the field that will help motorists during the Interstate construction program,” Flowers said. In addition to a system of standard work zone signage, Flowers said that “intelligent” signs are currently in place at “smart” work zones along Interstate 40 between Lonoke and Hazen, as well as near West Memphis. These signs use sensors to track and post driving speeds and variable messages as upcoming road conditions change.

Arkansas’ roving Motorist Assistance Patrol currently operates around the Interstate work zone near West Memphis to deliver help for motorists experiencing difficulties. “The MAP provides a wide range of assistance,” Flowers said. “If you run into trouble pull completely off the road and be patient. We’ll be looking out for you.” Some of the assistance offered by the MAP includes extinguishing car fires; rendering first aid; helping with flat tires; re-fueling an empty gas tank; jump-starting dead batteries, and summoning wreckers or tow vehicles.

“The Interstate Rehabilitation program will pay off in improved roads and a better quality of life for all Arkansans,” Flowers said. “We just want to make sure everyone has a safe and secure trip during the holidays and beyond.” For more information, motorists may contact the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department at 501-569-2227 or visit the Department’s website at www.arkansashighways.com.

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